The fisheries scientists who participated in the recently held national webinar on aquatic animal health management for sustainable aquaculture has urged state governments to adopt stringent checks against antibiotic residues in aquaculture and fish products. The webinar, jointly organized by the Cochin-based Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and Department of Fisheries, Government of Kerala, pointed out that the presence of the antibiotic resistant bacteria in fishes, shell fishes including shrimps and fish products are increasing in a unhealthy manner. The main reasons for the presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria being found in the aquatic environment are the effluent release to water bodies and increasing organic load, it was observed. The Webinar also suggests adopting quality testing practices for domestic fish and fish products before distribution against antibiotic residues and other contaminants as implemented in the country in the shrimp export segment. Export oriented Shrimp industry in the county has stringent quality checks and management practices in terms of antibiotic residues, but the same has not been instituted on fish and shellfish products meant for domestic consumption. Dr Riji John K, Dean of Fisheries Faculty of KUFOS and chairman of the webinar said the requirement of antibiotic residues check on fish seed and feed is more relevant in Kerala since the State Government is promoting aquaculture in all potential water bodies as part of Subikshakeralam’ project. At present the requirement of fish seed and fish feed is very high in the State as the Subikshakeralam’ project is being implemented successfully. Proper antibiotic residues check on fish seed and feed is a matter of public health concern. The main recommendation of the webinar is the inclusion of seed and feed testing for antibiotic residues to be made mandatory at state and national levels to ensure quality by enactment and strict implementation of the Fish Seed and Feed Act in all states, he added.